Adding bleach to ammonia — or ammonia-containing products, like some window cleaners — can be seriously dangerous. When combined, they produce gas that can constrict breathing. The only thing you should mix bleach with is water.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

3 of 6

Getty Images

DON'T: Use Laundry Stain Remover on Carpets

The stain treatment can leave a sticky residue that's a magnet for dirt. Use a spray specifically formulated for carpets instead.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

4 of 6

Getty Images

DON'T: Dust Furniture With a Dry Rag

This will just move dust around and scratch the finish. Spray a cloth with polish like Guardsman Anytime Clean & Polish ($6, walmart.com), or use a microfiber cloth or an electrostatic duster like Swiffer Duster ($5, swiffer.com)

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

5 of 6

Getty Images

DON'T: Use Bleach to Clean Rust

It will actually set the stain. Try a specially formulated rust-stain remover, such as Whink. ($4, whink.com)

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

6 of 6

Getty Images

DON'T: Use Dish Soap to Wash Your Car

Your kitchen go-to is harsher on the paint than a car wash. Our pick: Simple Green Car Wash. ($6, buy.simplegreen.com)
This story originally appeared in the June 2015 issue of Good Housekeeping.

A Part of Hearst Digital Media
Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.